Consequences of semen inflammation and lipid peroxidation on fertilization capacity of spermatozoa in in vitro conditions

A systematic review identifying seminal plasma biomarkers and their predictive ability on IVF and ICSI outcomes

The diverse nature and high molecule concentration of seminal plasma (SP) makes this fluid a good potential source for a potential biomarker that could predict assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Currently, semen quality parameters cannot accurately predict ART outcomes. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify human SP biomarkers with potential predictive ability for the outcomes of IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Observational cohort and case-control studies describing the association between biomarkers in human SP and the outcome of infertile men attending for ART were included. Forty-three studies were selected, reporting on 89 potential SP biomarkers (grouped as oxidative stress, proteins glycoproteins, metabolites, immune system components, metals and trace elements and nucleic acids). The present review supports 32 molecules in SP as potentially relevant biomarkers for predicting ART outcomes; 23 molecules were reported once and nine molecules were reported in more than one study; IL-18 and TGF-β1-IL-18 ratio were confirmed in distinct studies. This review presents the most comprehensive overview of relevant SP biomarkers to predict ART outcomes to date, which is of clinical interest for infertility investigations and assisted reproduction; nevertheless, its potential is under-exploited. This review could serve as starting point for designing an all-encompassing study for biomarkers in SP and their predictive ability for ART outcomes, and for developing a non-invasive diagnostic tool.

Role of Mediterranean diet in endocrine diseases: a joint overview by the endocrinologist and the nutritionist

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review is to examine the current evidence on the potential role of Mediterranean diet (MD) in the prevention and management of endocrine disorders and to highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and nutritionists.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify relevant studies published in English. Studies were selected based on their relevance to the role of MD in the prevention and management of endocrine disorders. The search terms included "Mediterranean diet," "endocrine disorders," "thyroid disorders," "gonadal disorders," and "neuroendocrine tumors".

RESULTS

The studies reviewed suggest that MD may have a beneficial effect in the prevention and management of various endocrine disorders, including thyroid disorders, gonadal disorders, and neuroendocrine tumors. MD has been associated with decreased risk of nodular thyroid disease and thyroid cancer, improved male and female reproductive health, and a potential role in the management of neuroendocrine tumors. MD's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its high levels of phytochemicals, may play a role in its beneficial effects.

CONCLUSION

Interdisciplinary collaboration between endocrinologists and nutritionists is essential for the optimal management of endocrine disorders, including the potential role of MD in their prevention and management. While further research is needed, the current evidence suggests that MD may have a protective effect against endocrine disorders, and its incorporation into dietary recommendations may be beneficial.

Oxidative stress-induced by different stressors alters kidney tissue antioxidant markers and levels of creatinine and urea: the fate of renal membrane integrity

The cellular integrity of the kidney in homeostatic regulation has constantly been compromised by oxidative stress following exposure to varying nature of stressor present within the environment. The objective of the work was to evaluate the renal effect of the different stressor stimuli applied. Twenty-four adult female rats weighing averagely 160-200 g and within the ages of 12-14 weeks were used for experiment-1, while 12 offspring were utilized for experiment-2. Three stress models namely; restraint, mirror chamber and cat intruder stressors were used. Tissues were isolated from the animal and homogenized for tissue antioxidant assay. Serum was collected for assays of urea and creatinine for the kidney function test using ELISA. Data collected were analyzed for Mean ± SEM using One Way ANOVA. The present study revealed that exposure of rats to different stressors reduced relative kidney weights but did not significantly alter serum creatinine concentration in the Wistar rats, although the concentrations were slightly increased compared to controls. Urea concentration was significantly (p < 0.05) increased in rats exposed to restraint and intruder stressors. Exposure to a mirror chamber stressor did not significantly alter urea concentration. Offspring from parents of stressed female rats exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) increase in serum urea level, minimal increase in serum creatinine levels. GSH and GST levels showed no significant difference when compared to control group, whereas, GPx were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased irrespective of the stressor applied. SOD activity were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the group exposed to restraint or cat intruder stressor. CAT activities were significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in the rats exposed to restraint or cat intruder stressor. In all, the different stress model altered the antioxidant capacity of the kidney tissues. Exposure of rats to a stressful condition of the different nature of stressor has the tendency of compromising the functional integrity of the kidney, thus, with the potency of complicating female renal function.

Cuscuta chinensis flavonoids reducing oxidative stress of the improve sperm damage in bisphenol A exposed mice offspring

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common environmental endocrine disruptor, and overexposure is a threat to male reproduction. Although studies have confirmed that BPA exposure causes a decrease in sperm quality in offspring, the dosage used, and the underlying mechanism is not clear. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether Cuscuta chinensis flavonoids (CCFs) can antagonize or alleviate BPA-induced reproductive injury by analyzing the processes associated with BPA's impairment of sperm quality. BPA and 40 mg/kg bw/day of CCFs were administered to the dams at gestation day (GD) 0.5-17.5. Testicles and serum of male mice are collected on postnatal day 56 (PND56), and spermatozoa are collected to detect relevant indicators. Our results showed that compared with the BPA group, CCFs could significantly increase the serum contents of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone (T) in males at PND 56, as well as the transcription levels of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and Cytochrome P450 family 11, subfamily A, and member 1 (CYP11A1). CCFs also significantly inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), reduce oxidative stress, increase mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduce sperm apoptosis. It also has a certain regulatory effect on sperm telomere length and mitochondrial DNA copy number. These results suggest that CCFs can increase reproductive hormone and receptor levels in adult males by regulating the expression of oxidative stress correlated factors, and ultimately mitigate the negative effects of BPA on sperm quality in male mice.

Ejaculatory Abstinence Affects the Sperm Quality in Normozoospermic Men-How Does the Seminal Bacteriome Respond?

This study was designed to describe bacterial profiles of ejaculates collected following a long and short ejaculatory abstinence set in the context of changes in the conventional, oxidative, and immunological characteristics of semen. Two specimens were collected in succession from normozoospermic men (n = 51) following 2 days and 2 h, respectively. Semen samples were processed and analyzed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2021 guidelines. Afterwards, sperm DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial function, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity, and oxidative damage to sperm lipids and proteins were evaluated in each specimen. Selected cytokine levels were quantified using the ELISA method. Bacterial identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry revealed that samples collected following two days of abstinence presented with a higher bacterial load and diversity, and a greater prevalence of potentially uropathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Only staphylococci and Escherichia coli remained present in specimens obtained after 2 h of abstinence. Whilst all samples accomplished the criteria set by WHO, a significantly higher motility (p < 0.05), membrane integrity (p < 0.05), mitochondrial membrane potential (p < 0.05), and DNA integrity (p < 0.0001) were detected following 2 h of ejaculatory abstinence. On the other hand, significantly higher ROS levels (p < 0.001), protein oxidation (p < 0.001), and lipid peroxidation (p < 0.01) accompanied by significantly higher concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha (p < 0.05), interleukin-6 (p < 0.01), and interferon gamma (p < 0.05) were observed in specimens collected after two days of abstinence. It may be summarized that shorter ejaculatory abstinence does not compromise sperm quality in normozoospermic men, while it contributes to a decreased occurrence of bacteria in semen which is accompanied by a lower probability of damage to spermatozoa by ROS or pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Possible Implications of Bacteriospermia on the Sperm Quality, Oxidative Characteristics, and Seminal Cytokine Network in Normozoospermic Men

This study focused on the identification of bacterial profiles of semen in normozoospermic men and their possible involvement in changes to the sperm structural integrity and functional activity. Furthermore, we studied possible fluctuations of selected cytokines, oxidative markers, and antibacterial proteins as a result of bacterial presence in the ejaculate. Sperm motility was assessed with computer-assisted sperm analysis, while sperm apoptosis, necrosis and acrosome integrity were examined with fluorescent methods. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was quantified via luminometry, sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated using the TUNEL protocol and chromatin-dispersion test, while the JC-1 assay was applied to evaluate the mitochondrial membrane potential. Cytokine levels were quantified with the biochip assay, whilst selected antibacterial proteins were quantified using the ELISA method. The predominant species identified by the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry were Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus capitis and Micrococcus luteus. The results revealed that the sperm quality decreased proportionally to the increasing bacterial load and occurrence of conditionally pathogenic bacteria, including Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed a substantial resistance of randomly selected bacterial strains to ampicillin, vancomycin, tobramycin, and tetracycline. Furthermore, an increased bacterial quantity in semen was accompanied by elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha as well as ROS overproduction and lipid peroxidation of the sperm membranes. Our results suggest that semen quality may be notably affected by the bacterial quantity as well as quality. It seems that bacteriospermia may be associated with inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, sperm structural deterioration, and a subsequent risk for the development of subfertility, even in normozoospermic males.

Promoting action of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive hormones and organ histoarchitecture of Swiss albino mice

Background

Vitamin E and black seed oil are two powerful antioxidants with several health benefits.

Objective

The effect of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive performance of Swiss albino mice was studied.

Methods

A total of 80 (40 male and 40 female) mice of 25–28 days old were randomly divided into four groups viz., A, B, C and D consisting of 10 mice in each group. Mice from the group A served as vehicle control and received normal mice ration whereas mice from the group B, C and D received feed supplemented with either black seed oil (0.5 ml/kg), vitamin E (200 mg/kg) or combination of black seed oil (0.5 ml/kg) and vitamin E (200 mg/kg), respectively daily for 16 weeks. At the end point of the study, blood samples were collected and sera were separated for hormonal analysis. At the same time, mice were sacrificed and testes and ovaries were collected for histomorphological examination.

Results

In male mice, the level of testosterone increased significantly in mice receiving black seed oil only, whereas the thyroxin increased significantly in all treated groups when compared to the control mice. Histomorphological examination revealed a significant increase in the diameter of seminiferous tubules in male mice fed with either black seed oil or vitamin E or both. On the other hand, the oestradiol and thyroxin concentration in female mice showed no significant changes in both control and treated groups. However, ovaries of mice fed with black seed oil or vitamin E or both showed an increased number of the follicles of different stages than the control mice.

Conclusions

The findings highlighted the promoting action of vitamin E and black seed oil on reproductive functions of mice and that can be used to treat infertility in man and animals.

Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli: Tracking from sperm fertility potential to assisted reproductive outcomes

Objective

Bacteriospermia and urogenital infections are common problems in male infertility. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of bacteriospermia on sperm parameters and clinical outcomes in semen samples infected with two common bacteria (Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli) in northern Iran.

Methods

Microbiological tests were performed to isolate and identify organisms from 435 semen samples from infertile couples. Semen samples were assessed according to the World Health Organization criteria. The protamine status, chromatin structure, chromatin condensation, and acrosome reaction of sperm and assisted reproductive outcomes were determined in couples with different male infertility factors.

Results

Among the total cases, the two most prevalent pathogens were considered: S. saprophyticus (38.2%) and E. coli (52.9%). In the semen samples infected with E. coli, the spontaneous acrosome reaction and abnormal chromatin condensation were more common (p<0.05). Significant increases in abnormal chromatin condensation and deprotamination were seen in the presence of S. saprophyticus. In washed semen, tight adhesion between the sperm midpiece and S. saprophyticus was observed. There was also a significant decrease in the fertilization rate using semen samples infected with S. saprophyticus and E. coli during in vitro fertilization cycles (p<0.001). In addition, the presence of S. saprophyticus and E. coli in semen samples was associated with a lower likelihood of clinical pregnancy in couples with various factors of male infertility.

Conclusion

Poor results of assisted reproductive techniques may be correlated with semen samples infected with two common bacteria in northern Iran.

The "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" of Endothelial Dysfunction Markers in Human Fertility

Endothelial dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and represents the first step in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The evaluation of endothelial health is fundamental in clinical practice and several direct and indirect markers have been suggested so far to identify any alterations in endothelial homeostasis. Alongside the known endothelial role on vascular health, several pieces of evidence have demonstrated that proper endothelial functioning plays a key role in human fertility and reproduction. Therefore, this state-of-the-art review updates the endothelial health markers discriminating between those available for clinical practice or for research purposes and their application in human fertility. Moreover, new molecules potentially helpful to clarify the link between endothelial and reproductive health are evaluated herein.

Urinary oxidative stress biomarker levels and reproductive outcomes among couples undergoing fertility treatments

STUDY QUESTION

Are urinary levels of oxidative stress biomarkers associated with reproductive outcome success following fertility treatments?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Levels of oxidative stress in the middle tertile for women are associated with the highest levels of reproductive success while no associations were noted for men.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Oxidative stress may contribute to adverse fertility outcomes in the general population, but findings from couples undergoing fertility treatments are sparse.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

This prospective cohort study included 481 women and 249 of their male partners undergoing fertility treatments from 2007 to 2015, from the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) study in Boston, MA.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

One urine sample per participant was collected at each cycle and analysed for two oxidative stress markers: 8-isoprostane-PGF2α (8-iso-PGF2α) and 8-isoprostane-PGF2α metabolite (F2-isoP-M). Reproductive outcomes were abstracted from medical records and included the fertilization rate, for IVF (oocytes fertilized/mature oocytes retrieved), and rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth, for both IVF and IUI. Cluster-weighted generalized estimating equations were used to analyse adjusted associations between exposure tertiles and outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Levels of F2-isoP-M in the middle tertile were associated with the most success among women. Women in the upper tertile of F2-isoP-M had an adjusted mean live birth rate after IVF and IUI of 23% (95% CI: 17, 29) compared to 38% (95% CI: 31, 45) for women in the middle tertile and 27% (95% CI: 21, 34) in the lower tertile. The fertilization rate during IVF was higher for women with 8-iso-PGF2α in the middle tertile (0.77 [95% CI: 0.73, 0.80]) compared to women in the lower (0.69 [95% CI: 0.64, 0.73]) or upper tertiles (0.66 [95% CI: 0.61, 0.71]). No significant associations were found for other measured outcomes with 8-iso-PGF2α, or between any oxidative stress biomarker in men and reproductive outcomes in their partners.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Isoprostanes are short-lived biomarkers and this study may not have captured the most relevant window of susceptibility for oxidative stress on the outcomes of interest. Findings from this study may not be generalizable to couples attempting conception without fertility assistance.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This study suggests that a non-linear association may exist between oxidative stress and reproductive outcomes in a population undergoing fertility treatment, a finding not previously identified in the literature. Oxidative stress may represent the mechanism through which environmental chemicals are associated with adverse reproductive outcomes.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This research was supported by the Intramural Research Program of the National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) (ZIA ES103314) and by NIEHS grants R01ES022955, R01ES009718 and R01ES00002. There are no competing interests to report.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Effect of the Age and Body Weight of the Broiler Breeders Male on the Presentation of Oxidative Stress and Its Correlation with the Quality of Testicular Parenchyma and Physiological Antioxidant Levels

Chicken meat is a food of high nutritional quality; its production requires birds called broilers breeders and looking after all aspects that influence their reproductive capacity. An ongoing controversy exists among researchers related to the weight of the rooster and its fertilization capacity. By histological and biochemical tests, the association between weight and age with oxidant damage, testicular parenchyma and antioxidant capacity was evaluated in Ross 308 roosters. Testicular integrity was assessed by histological analysis, oxidative stress was determined by malondialdehyde content, non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity was determined by oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay and enzymatic antioxidant capacity through glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-S-transferase activities. Histological analysis showed vacuolization of the epithelium from the seminiferous tubules. A significant negative association was observed between malondialdehyde and the deterioration of the integrity of the seminiferous epithelium, as well as between age and integrity of the seminiferous epithelium. It became evident that oxidative damage directly affects the quality of testicular parenchyma. Weight and age were not associated with the antioxidant enzymes activities, but with non-enzymatic capacity. The data obtained suggest that weight is not the most important factor that influences the fertility of the rooster.

Diet and Nutritional Factors in Male (In)fertility-Underestimated Factors

In up to 50% of cases, infertility issues stem solely from the male. According to some data, the quality of human semen has deteriorated by 50%–60% over the last 40 years. A high-fat diet and obesity, resulting from an unhealthy lifestyle, affects the structure of spermatozoa, but also the development of offspring and their health in later stages of life. In obese individuals, disorders on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are observed, as well as elevated oestrogen levels with a simultaneous decrease in testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Healthy dietary models clearly correlate with better sperm quality and a smaller risk of abnormalities in parameters such as sperm count, sperm concentration and motility, and lower sperm DNA fragmentation. Apart from mineral components such as zinc and selenium, the role of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins should be emphasized, since their action will be primarily based on the minimization of oxidative stress and the inflammation process. Additionally, the incorporation of carnitine supplements and coenzyme Q10 in therapeutic interventions also seems promising. Therefore, it is advisable to have a varied and balanced diet based on vegetables and fruit, fish and seafood, nuts, seeds, whole-grain products, poultry, and low-fat dairy products.

[Bacteriospermia: Effects on semen parameters]

OBJECTIVES

Bacteriospermia may result in male hypofertlity. Indeed, 60% of patients treated by Assisted Reproductive Techniques had a local infection or inflammation of genital tract. However, direct effects of bacteriospermia on semen parameters remain controversial. The aim of our work was to explore the effect of bacteriospermia on sperm parameters among patients consulting for hypofertility.

METHODS

A retrospective comparative study of two groups: a group of 70 patients with bacteriospermia (group 1) and a control group of 70 patients without bacteriospermia (group 2). For these groups, we studied the standard semen parameters (seminal volume and viscosity and spermatozoa count, initial and secondary mobility, vitality and morphology). Comparison of these parameters was made by the Chi² test and the Fisher test.

RESULTS

The mean age of our population was 40.4±6.7 years. There was no significant difference between ejaculate average volume in the 2 groups (group B: 2.78mL versus group A: 2.92mL with P=0.2). Similarly, for the viscosity no difference was noted (P=0,68). The altered parameters in the presence of bacteriospermia were mean concentration and sperm motility (P=0.001 and P=0.049 respectively). The prevalence of secondary asthenospermia was higher in the presence of bacterospermia (P=0.006). No statistically significant differences were observed for morphology and vitality of spermatozoa (P=0.276 and P=0.075 respectively). The leucospermia was associated with bacteriospermia in 10% patients. Ureaplasma urealyticum was the germ most found (45.7%) followed by Streptococcus and Staphylococcacae (20.3% for each), Gram negative rods accounted for 12.9%, while Corynebacterium spp was isolated only in 4,3% patients. U. urealyticum was associated with hypospermia in 33% of cases (P=0.031). Spermatozoa motility was significatively decreased not only in the presence of this bacteria (FT=0.002) but also when cultures were positive for Streptococcus (0.04) and Corynebacterium (P<0.001). Morphological abnormalities were also noticed with Streptococcus with index of teratozoospermia of 46% versus 19% in the 2nd group (P=0.046).

CONCLUSION

Bacteriospermia may impair sperm parameters. The treatment of this affection seems to improve sperm fertilizing potential. In addition, it could prevent contamination of culture media.

Coenzyme Q10 Intake From Food and Semen Parameters in a Subfertile Population

OBJECTIVE

To assess the association between coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) intake from food sources and semen quality. We assessed this association in a prospective cohort of men attending a fertility clinic. CoQ10 supplementation has been associated with improvements in semen parameters. However, the impact of CoQ10 intake from food sources on semen quality has not been investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subfertile couples seeking fertility evaluation at the Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center were invited to participate in an ongoing study of environmental factors and fertility. In total, 211 male participants completed a validated food frequency questionnaire and provided 476 semen samples. Multivariable linear mixed models were used to examine the relation between CoQ10 intake from food and semen parameters while adjusting for potential confounders and accounting for within-person correlations.

RESULTS

Mean dietary CoQ10 intake was 19.2 mg/day (2.4-247.2 mg/day). No subjects were taking CoQ10 supplements. There were no associations between dietary CoQ10 intake from food and conventional semen parameters. The adjusted mean difference (95% confidence interval) comparing men in the top and bottom quartiles of CoQ10 intake from food were -3.1 mil/mL (95% confidence interval -29.5, 38.8 mil/mL) for sperm concentration, -4.5% (-15.1%, 6.0%) for total motility, -1.3% for progressive motility (-8.4%, 5.7%), and 0.3% (-1.4%, 2.0%) for sperm morphology.

CONCLUSION

CoQ10 intake from food was not related to semen parameters among subfertile men. Mean dietary intake of CoQ10 in this study was 10-fold lower than the supplemental dose used in clinical trials showing improved sperm motility. CoQ10 intake from food alone may be insufficient to optimize semen parameters.

Effects of KH-204 on the expression of heat shock protein 70 and germ cell apoptosis in infertility rat models

Background

Idiopathic infertility is a significant number of causes of male infertility. Empirical treatments are used for idiopathic male infertility, and antioxidant supplementation is a kind of management of oxidative stress related infertility. We investigated the antioxidant effects of the modified Ojayeonjonghwan (KH-204) in a rat model of cryptorchidism.

Method

Male rats were divided into four groups (n = 8 in each): a normal control group, a cryptorchidism-induced control group and two cryptorchidism-induced groups treated p.o. with either 200 or 400 mg/kg, KH-204 for 4 weeks. The testes and epididymides from rats in all groups were removed, weighed and subjected to histological examination and semen analysis after surgery. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and heat shock protein (HSP) levels. Apoptosis was determined using a terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-digoxigenin nick end-labeling assay.

Results

Treatment with the multi-herbal medicine KH-204 (1) increased the mean weight of the cryptorchid testes; (2) restored sperm counts, motility and germinal cell layer thickness; (3) decreased levels of 8-OHdG and increased levels of SOD; and (4) decreased HSP70 levels and apoptosis.

Conclusions

KH-204 reduces the oxidative stress in an experimental rat model of cryptorchidism, and it may alleviate HSP expression and germ cell apoptosis.

Preliminary report on the safety of a new herbal formula and its effect on sperm quality

PURPOSE

Male infertility is a serious problem, and its prevalence has been increasing. Therefore, we investigated the safety of a new herbal formula and its effects on sperm quality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An in vitro cytotoxicity test in TM3 Leydig cells was performed to evaluate cell viability after administration of five types of herbs separately and of a new herbal formula containing these five. An in vivo test in male mice was performed to evaluate the influence of the new herbal formula on the reproductive organs and sperm quality. After the 8- and 28-day oral administration of the new herbal formula, the weights of the reproductive organs were measured and the sperm count and motility were evaluated.

RESULTS

In the in vitro cytotoxicity test, less than 80% cell viability at concentrations of 500 mg/L and 1,000 mg/L of Rubus coreanus Miquel and Cuscuta chinensis Lam was observed. However, more than 80% cell viability was observed at all the tested concentrations of the new herbal formula. After the 8- and 28-day oral administration, there were no considerable changes in body weight. The weights of the testes, epididymis, and seminal vesicles after the 8- and 28-day oral administration were similar to those of the control. The sperm count and activity were significantly improved compared with those of the control group at 8 and 28 days after 100, 200, and 400 mg of oral administration.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety of the new formula and its positive effect on the sperm quality were observed after the oral administration of the formula.

[Seminal cytokines: is quantification useful in urogenital disorders?]

Cytokines are cellular messengers which play a key role in many biological conditions such as immune defence and reproduction. During recent years analysis of seminal cytokines has become of increasing interest in various pathologies. To evaluate the current role of seminal cytokines we performed a systematic literature search within the framework of our focus group "Male Infertility during Infection and Inflammation - MIBIE". Out of 581 manuscripts we identified 124 original articles which investigated a total of 31 different cytokines. These studies can be categorized according to the following three topics: infertility, infections and chronic prostatitis. The current analysis demonstrates that seminal cytokine profiles are not associated with either semen quality or fertility; however, cytokines might be beneficial for diagnosis and monitoring therapy in patients with urogenital infections/inflammation. Further studies are needed to clarify if a single cytokine or a combination of different cytokines is necessary to evaluate different pathologies.

Correlation of sperm parameters with semen lipid peroxidation and total antioxidants levels in astheno- and oligoasheno- teratospermic men

Background

Sperm dysfunction caused by reactive oxygen species (ROSs) is one of the major causes of infertility in men, which leads to, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and the formation of stable peroxidation products like Malondialdehyde (MDA) in seminal plasma. MDA is effective factor in reducing fertility.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to determine two biochemical markers of oxidative stress; TAC and MDA, and them correlation to quality-quantity factors in Asthenoteratospermic and Oligoashenoteratospermic men.

Patients and Methods

A total of 42 semen samples including: 15 samples normospermic as control group, 12 Asthenoteratospermic and 15 oligoasthenoteratospermic were collected from Babol IVF center; Iran. Semen analysis was performed according to WHO (1999) guidelines. Seminal plasma TAC and MDA levels in all patients were measured by TBARs and FRAP methods, respectively.

Results

Seminal plasma TAC level in normospermic men was significantly higher than asthenoteratospermic men (P < 0.001) and oligasthenoteratospermic men (P < 0.001) and had posetive correlation with sperm count, motility and morphology. In contrast MDA levels in normospermic men were significantly lower than in asthenoteratospermic men (P = 0.049) and oligoasthenoteratospermic men (P = 0.001) and had negative correlation with sperm count, motility and morphology.

Conclusions

These results suggest that lipid peroxidation and decreasing total antioxidant capacity lead to low motility; morphology and sperm count in spermatozoa of astheno-and oligoastheno-teratospermic men. Therefore, evaluation of oxidative status and antioxidant defenses system may be as a useful tool for diagnosis and treatment of male infertility especially in idiopathic male infertility.

Expression of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-alpha, IL-10, HSP-60, anti-HSP-60 antibodies, and anti-sperm antibodies, in semen of men with leukocytes and/or bacteria

PROBLEM

Different cellular and biochemical markers have been proposed as indicators of infection-inflammation of male genital tract.

METHOD OF STUDY

Semen samples from 80 men attending an andrologic clinic were evaluated to determine the presence of leukocyte, bacteria, antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis, levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-alpha, HSP-60, anti-HSP-60 antibodies, and anti-sperm antibodies.

RESULTS

Leukocytes in semen significantly correlated with an increase in IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-alpha. The simultaneous presence of pathogens and leukocytes was associated with high levels of IL-8 and TNF-alpha, whereas IL-6 was more associated with the presence of leukocytes. Anti-HSP-60 antibodies positively correlated with IL-6 and IL-8. The presence of anti-sperm antibodies highly associated with an increase in anti-HSP-60 antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

The type of cytokines present in the semen will depend on the single or simultaneous presence of leukocytes and/or pathogens. Chronic male genital tract infections could be associated with the development of anti-HSP-60 antibodies and anti-sperm antibodies.

Physiologic and pathologic levels of reactive oxygen species in neat semen of infertile men

OBJECTIVE

To define physiologic levels of reactive oxygen species in infertile men and establish a cutoff value of reactive oxygen species level in neat semen with a high sensitivity and specificity to differentiate infertile men from fertile donors (controls).

DESIGN

Reactive oxygen species levels were measured in the neat semen samples (n = 51) from fertile donors and infertile patients (n = 54).

SETTING

Reproductive research laboratory at a tertiary care hospital.

PATIENT(S)

Infertile patients from male infertility clinic.

INTERVENTION(S)

Reactive oxygen species measurement in neat semen sample using luminol-based chemiluminescence method, receiver operating characteristic curves.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Seminal reactive oxygen species levels, cutoff value, sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative predictive values.

RESULT(S)

The best cutoff value to distinguish between healthy fertile donors and infertile men was 0.0185 x 10(6) counted photons per minute/20 x 10(6) sperm. At this threshold, the specificity was 82% and the sensitivity was 78%. This value can be defined as basal reactive oxygen species level in infertile men.

CONCLUSION(S)

Reactive oxygen species levels in neat semen samples as measured by luminol-based chemiluminescence are a highly specific and sensitive test in the diagnosis of infertility. This test also may help clinicians treat patients with seminal oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress and male infertility--a clinical perspective

Oxidative stress occurs when the production of potentially destructive reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceeds the bodies own natural antioxidant defenses, resulting in cellular damage. Oxidative stress is a common pathology seen in approximately half of all infertile men. ROS, defined as including oxygen ions, free radicals and peroxides are generated by sperm and seminal leukocytes within semen and produce infertility by two key mechanisms. First, they damage the sperm membrane, decreasing sperm motility and its ability to fuse with the oocyte. Second, ROS can alter the sperm DNA, resulting in the passage of defective paternal DNA on to the conceptus. This review will provide an overview of oxidative biochemistry related to sperm health and will identify which men are most at risk of oxidative infertility. Finally, the review will outline methods available for diagnosing oxidative stress and the various treatments available.

Coryneform bacteria in semen of chronic prostatitis patients

Our aim was to compare the presence and species composition of coryneform bacteria in chronic prostatitis patients and controls. Semen of 50 men with inflammatory prostatitis and 59 controls (without pelvic pain/discomfort complaints and leukocytospermia) was investigated. First-catch urine was additionally investigated in 36 men (30 with and 6 without prostatitis). Coryneform bacteria were found in semen of 76% men with inflammatory prostatitis and 83% controls. More than half of the isolates were identified as Corynebacterium seminale. Prostatitis patients with severe leukocytospermia (>1 million white blood cells per ml) harboured significantly more Corynebacterium group G (33% vs. 2%, p = 0.0003) and Arthrobacter sp. (17% vs. 2%, p = 0.03) in comparison with controls. Nine species of coryneforms with high concentration (>or=10,000 CFU per ml) were found in prostatitis patients as against only four species in controls. Half of the men harboured corynebacteria in semen as well as in urine, 22% of men in semen only, and 3% in urine only. The total concentration of coryneforms was greater in semen than in urine (median 5000 vs. 100 CFU per ml, p = 0.053). We suggest that although coryneforms are generally considered as saprophytes, they are not uniform and some species (Corynebacterium group G and Arthrobacter sp.) may be associated with inflammatory prostatitis.

Sperm lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory cytokines

AIM

To investigate if interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-10 (IL-10), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) or tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) are able to stimulate the level of lipid peroxidation of sperm membranes, either alone or in the presence of leukocytes.

METHODS

Semen samples from normozoospermic donors were prepared by density gradient. The sperms were exposed to the indicated cytokines, at physiological and infection-inflammation concentrations, in the absence or presence of leukocytes. Lipid peroxidation of the sperm membranes was determined by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxialkenals (HAE) formation.

RESULTS

TNF-alpha, IL-8 and IFN-gamma increased the level of sperm membrane lipid peroxidation when tested at physiological concentrations. At infection-inflammation concentrations, only IL-8 was able to produce a higher effect. When assayed in the presence of leucocytes, IL-8 and TNF-alpha showed a higher effect at infection-inflammation concentrations than at physiological concentrations. Finally, IL-8 showed a higher effect in the presence of leukocytes than in their absence at both physiological and infection-inflammation concentrations. TNF-alpha also showed a higher effect when assayed in the presence of leukocytes than in their absence, but only at infection-inflammation concentrations. There was no effect of IL-6 or IL-10 in any of the tested conditions.

CONCLUSION

Several pro-inflammatory cytokines at physiological concentrations increase the level of lipid peroxidation of sperm membranes, which could be important for the sperm fecundation process. However, infection-inflammation concentrations of some cytokines, such as IL-8 and TNF-alpha, either alone or in the presence of leukocytes, could drive the lipid peroxidation of the spermatozoa plasma membrane to levels that can affect the sperm fertility capacity.

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome/chronic prostatitis affect the acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa

Male genital tract inflammations constitute an important factor of male subfertility in which different mediators are discussed damaging sperm membranes. As acrosome reaction (AR) is ultimately a membrane function, this study aimed at investigating the effects of the chronic pelvic pain syndrome on AR. In a total of 56 patients with chronic pelvic pain syndrome NIH IIIA and NIH IIIB, AR, concentration of leucocytes in ejaculate and urine after prostate massage, sperm concentration, motility, vitality and morphology were determined. The control group (n = 95) consisted of patients with normozoospermia and proven absence of signs of inflammation. Compared to the control, both patients groups showed poorer sperm morphology (P < 0.0001) and sperm concentration (P < 0.002). In addition, while maximum AR was not affected, inducibility of AR was significantly lower (P < 0.004) and spontaneous AR increased (P < 0.02). Our data clearly demonstrate a significant influence of the inflammation on acrosomal functionality, which could be mediated by inflammatory mediators like ROS.